The Kony Express

Nothing is more powerful than an idea. Except an idea that gets Retweeted by Kris Humphries’s ex-wife.

With several icons (some lamer than others) and their share-happy followers generating significant online buzz, Invisible Children’s now-viral “Kony 2012″ campaign has introduced a new villain to the mainstream, while simultaneously placing a New Orleans Saints-like bounty on his head.

The non-profit organization’s video boldly asserts that eliminating Ugandan guerrilla leader Joseph Kony will only become a reality if we first make him a star. While Invisible Children co-founder and filmmaker Jason Russell has already succeeded in educating and inspiring millions, his ambitious project has stirred controversy amongst those who believe his story doesn’t paint the whole picture.

Regardless of how you feel about Invisible Children’s message, dialogue alone signifies progress.

At the very least, the Kony 2012 campaign illuminates how our attention span-challenged generation will respond to activism that is sexy and social. The film also acknowledges that Celebrity has an unique ability to influence media and (potentially) policy.

Kim Kardashian isn’t exactly John Lennon, but it’s encouraging to see our cultural ambassadors shine a light on something meaningful. Lennon famously used his platform to become a global representative of love and tolerance. Perhaps making Kony a universal symbol of evil will serve as significant and long-lasting call to action. You may say I’m a dreamer, but all we are tweeting is Give Peace a Chance.